Birmingham, Alabama is all about the hustle and bustle of the holiday season. Knowing exactly where is a good place to take the kids to see Santa will definitely help save time this holiday season. The most popular places to see Santa Claus are the malls, but did you know that Santa loves to visit various museums in the area to have breakfast? The best part is he invites the children to join him. Here are a few of the most popular hot spots to see Santa Claus each holiday season.

Santa arrives at the Riverchase Galleria around the middle of November and is available until Christmas Eve. He can be found in the Common Area inside the mall. There are photo packages available to have pictures taken with Santa. Each child will also receive a free Christmas coloring book from the jolly ole man himself. The times to see Santa vary so you will have to double check the website or call (205)985-3020 for up to date times. The Riverchase Galleria is located just a few miles south of Birmingham at 3000 Riverchase Galleria in Hoover, Alabama.

Come see Santa at Santa Claus Lane in The Summit. Sitting atop his sleigh in front of Belk’s, Santa will be available to hear the youngsters Christmas wish list and photographs. This Santa returns the favor at this location. As a thank you for leaving him all those delicious cookies each Christmas Eve, he gives each child a cookie in return. Santa normally arrives at The Summit shortly after Thanksgiving. The times will vary so it is best to check the website or call (205) 967-0111 for more details. You can also schedule a time to eat breakfast with the big guy. Tickets are generally $15.00 and reservations are required. The Summit is located at 214 Summit Boulevard.

This is a popular event in Birmingham and quite the treat for the little ones. On certain dates, Santa will be having breakfast at the Birmingham Zoo from 9:15am-10:30am. Reservations are required. The cost of this event ranges from $8.00 to $17.00 depending on age and whether you are a member of the Birmingham Zoo or not. However, you and your children having breakfast with Santa are absolutely priceless. The Birmingham Zoo is located at 2630 Cahaba Road. For more information and to make reservations, call (205) 879-0409.

For the price of admission, not only can you learn about aviation history in the south but you can spend time with Santa Claus as well. Admission is $7.00 for adults and $6.00 for children and seniors. Children under the age of 3 and members are admitted free. On specified date, Santa will come to hang out with your child and build an airplane ornament for the tree. He encourages parents to bring a camera to take pictures of him with their young ones. For more information call (205)833-8226.

Another great place to eat breakfast with Santa Claus is the McWane Science Center. On specified dates, Santa will visit the McWane Science Center to be available to listen to the children. Aside from having breakfast with the kids, he will decorate gingerbread houses with them, and walk through the Winter Wonderland Exhibit with them. Tickets are $15.00 for adults and $12.00 for children. Reservations are required. To find out more information or to make a reservation, call (205)714-8414.

Regardless where you choose to see Santa Claus in Birmingham, Alabama it is sure to be a memorable experience for the whole family.